Restaurant Spotlight: A.R. Valentien in La Jolla

This award-winning, fine dining destination features fresh, regional cuisine and a sophisticated setting decorated with artwork from the restaurant’s namesake, Albert Robert Valentien, a famous botanical artist who lived in San Diego.

In addition to California Craftsman-style interior complete with rich woods and Tiffany lamps, A.R. Valentien also includes an outdoor terrace where guests enjoy panoramic views of the adjacent Torrey Pines Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean.

What to Order at A.R. Valentien

Executive Chef Jeff Jackson has garnered national recognition for launching San Diego’s farm-to-table movement through his emphasis on market-driven, seasonal cooking.

Trained under the legendary Jean LaFont and having cooked at the James Beard House, he brings more than 30 years of culinary experience to The Lodge.

Chef Jackson’s creations use ingredients sourced from local fishermen, specialty food purveyors, and San Diego’s small farms and orchards. It’s part of his ongoing commitment to sustainability and ethical practices that nourish guests, the community and the earth.

Keep in mind that items on the menu are subject to change based on ingredients in season, but here are some examples.

The White Wine Braised Halibut has a melt in your mouth, flaky texture that is perfectly married with the Sweet Corn and Fava Bean Succotash.

Seafood isn’t the only feature on the menu. The 26 Day Dry Aged Prime Rib Steak is cooked to perfection and is really a show stopper! Its paired with Macaire Potatoes (elevated potato cakes) topped with Perperonata, Charred Spring Onion and a creamy Scallion and Herb Butter.

Local lunch entree

If dining mid-day, be sure to try the Local Lunch, a set meal with a starter, main and dessert each made using only locally-sourced ingredients.

What It’s Like Inside

It’s possible to have two different dining experiences with the same fantastic menu depending on where you choose to sit.

A.R. Valentien’s design is reflective of The Lodge’s California Craftsman-style architecture, boasting natural woods and leathers that create a classically elegant ambiance. Stunning Tiffany lamps, an impressive wine cellar and the collection of artwork by Albert Robert Valentien round out the experience. This cozy, intimate indoor dining space is popular for date nights.

From A.R. Valentien’s terrace, visitors can enjoy the outdoor scenery that spans for miles as they take in San Diego’s perfect climate. Tip: Time a spa appointment with lunch on the terrace for a lovely day out.

Special Events

Special events include A.R. Valentien’s weekly Artisan Table dinner series, an intimate, communal dining experience on the restaurant’s terrace, and The Lodge’s annual Celebrate the Craft charity event, one of Southern California’s premier showcases for regionally grown ingredients and innovative cooking and wine-making. The latter happens annually in the fall (this year, it’s October 28, 2018 — we’ve been and it’s fun).

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